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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

Home Radioactive Waste Decommissioning Regulations, Guidance, and Communications

Decommissioning Regulations

The NRC's regulations are found in Chapter I of Title 10, "Energy," of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Chapter I is divided into Parts 1 through 199. Part 20, Subpart E provides the main decommissioning requirements. The following parts are most applicable to decommissioning:

  • Part 20, Subpart E, Standards for Protection Against Radiation
  • Part 30.36, Rules of General Applicability to Domestic Licensing of Byproduct Material
  • Part 40.42, Domestic Licensing of Source Material
  • Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities
  • Part 51, Environmental Protection Regulations for Domestic Licensing and Related Regulatory Functions
  • Part 70.38, Domestic Licensing of Special Nuclear Material
  • Part 72.54, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater than Class C Waste
  • Part 73, Physical Protection of Plants and Materials

Refer to NUREG-1757, Vol. 1, Section 5.1 on timing of decommissioning.

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Monday, February 28, 2022